“Pancake Batter” Growing Off The Coast Of New England

Before you break out a wooden spoon, you may want to read a little further.

The water temperature is rising in the Gulf of Maine, and as a result, new species are popping up left and right. Introducing "sea squirts." Marine scientists told WGME News 13 that they are a variety of small, tube-like marine creatures that live bunched together in colonies. The scientists go on to say gelatinous animals have been growing in number in shallow waters along the coast and might be creating problems for native organisms. It seems they are getting squeezed out of their traditional habitat on the bottom.

Larry Harris, a zoology professor at University of New Hampshire told WGME “They are having a banner year this year. They are out there competing with the seaweeds and [other organisms] on the bottom.” "Sea squirts are extremely prevalent.”

it was Harris who made "pancake batter” comparison. He said the creatures have enveloped some of the structures where he dives to collect data.